I was born with HIV. I was diagnosed at birth in 1990. My chances of survival were incredibly slim. I lived in hospitals the first several years of my life. I’ve been on most HIV treatment regimens.

I was constantly educated about HIV, but trying to understand it was so hard. Before I was eight, I’d lost both parents to AIDS. I resented the doctors, HIV and AIDS, my parents, even God.

I didn’t understand my body; I was really skinny but with a bloated stomach, and thin cheeks, almost skeletal-like. I had other side effects from having this type of immune system and from taking treatment. I always felt different.

I had hepatitis C for a while, but I’ve been undetectable since high school. I graduated in 2009 and lived a ‘normal’ life. I went to college but always kept my status secret for fear of rejection. I’ve only become comfortable and willing to talk about my status in the last few years. I stumbled across Avert and thought: ‘this could be a chance to share my story with hope’.

I want to raise awareness and educate others about HIV. It doesn’t have to be as crippling as it once was. I exercise, I work and I take part in anything I find interesting - I live a normal life.

I’m resilient. I don’t have to go through what my parents went through. I recall vivid images of their last days and think if only antiretroviral treatment was as advanced then as it is now, they may have lived. Their losses are a whole different story for another day, but I truly find myself a warrior!